Today’s workout: Time-saving lunge combines 2 moves

Combination moves are time savers for the busy beavers. And mind-consuming for the easily distracted or those simply looking for more challenging moves.

Whatever reason you like to combine exercises, itís a win-win for sure.

I feel that I work a little harder simply because there is a little more focus needed to perform duality (with balance, form and precision).

Todayís move is a perfect example of that.

We have a lunging lateral raise. You will need a set of light to medium hand weights for this combo move.

It will be working your upper back and shoulders, along with your glutes, hamstrings and quads.

Begin this combination move by grabbing the weights in each hand and splitting your stance for a lunge. Place one foot in front of you with your weight in your heel, and extend the other foot behind you with you weight in your toe.

Keeping your hips squared forward, chest tall, and shoulders back and down, you are ready to move.

Start by bending in both knees for your lunge and lifting both arms to the outside of your body. Keep your palms facing down on the way up.

You will go as low as you can in your lunge, and extend the arms to an almost lateral position, keeping elbows slightly bent, all of this simultaneously.

Once you reach your fullest extension/deepest point, slowly returning to the start. Continue this movement (lowering/lifting) for at least 10 repetitions. Then switch legs and repeat on the other side.

Continue on each side for at least three sets. The upper body may fatigue quicker, if so, drop the weight and continue with lighter or no weights at all to finish your workout.

This is a great move for working the whole body, so itíll fill in for a quick, overall workout. Also great to add into any other upper or lower body routines.

So, whether you have too much on your plate or your mind wanders easily, this is a great move for you!

Happy lunging ... and raising.

ó Marlo Alleva, an instructor at Goldís Gym and group fitness coordinator at Fontaine-Gills YMCA, can be reached at faluvzpa@msn.com